Thanks to films from all over the world, OKO discovers the lives of amazing people with unique traditions, rituals, beliefs, and lifestyles.
This is how we learned about the Alevis, a religious community who are followers of Ali (the son-in-law and cousin of the Prophet Muhammad). Director Vladimir Andonov met the characters of his film during one of his expeditions to the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. He was so impressed by the story of the Alevi couple, Jemal and Barika, and their fight against a deadly disease that he decided to capture it.
So, what is aşk (love) in the understanding of the Alevis?
Where can one find hope for salvation?
How can a person gain eternal life?
We discussed these questions with the director and the audience during the session. You can find more details in the video.